CPV Code in Public Procurement Law
The CPV code is the EU-wide uniform classification system for public contracts and a mandatory entry in contract notices on TED.
Definition: The CPV code (Common Procurement Vocabulary) is an 8-digit numerical code plus a check digit that, on the basis of Regulation (EC) No 213/2008, classifies the subject matter of public contracts uniformly across the EU and must be indicated as a mandatory entry in all notices in the Supplement to the Official Journal of the EU (TED).
Last updated: January 2026 · Legal basis: Regulation (EC) No 213/2008, Directive 2014/24/EU, BVergG 2018, VgV
What is a CPV code?
The CPV code (Common Procurement Vocabulary) is the binding EU-wide classification system for supply, service and construction contracts in public procurement. Each code consists of eight digits followed by a check digit, separated by a hyphen – for example, 45213316-1 for the construction of warehouses. The main codes begin with two digits for the overarching main category and are progressively refined by further digits. In addition, there is a supplementary vocabulary that describes additional features such as material, procedure or geographical aspects.
The legal basis is Commission Regulation (EC) No 213/2008 of 28 November 2007, which introduced the CPV and has since made it binding for all contract notices above the EU thresholds. Below the thresholds, Austria and Germany also recommend the use of the CPV without strictly requiring it in all cases.
Significance in the procurement procedure
The CPV code fulfils two central functions in the procurement procedure: it enables contracting authorities to describe the subject matter of the contract precisely and gives bidders the most important search tool for relevant tenders on TED and national platforms. Companies that set up their CPV search on the European tender database TED (Tenders Electronic Daily) are automatically informed of new notices in their area of activity.
Contracting authorities are obliged to specify at least one main CPV code for each notice and, where appropriate, supplementary codes. Inaccurate or incorrect CPV entries can result in suitable bidders not finding the tender – which limits competition and can be challenged in review proceedings. For framework agreements and dynamic purchasing systems, the CPV codes for the entire range of services must be indicated, since subsequent extensions are not permitted.
Related terms
- NUTS code
- Contract notice
- Bill of quantities
- Contract value
- Invitation to tender
- Dynamic purchasing system
Last updated: January 2026 All information without guarantee. For legally binding advice, please consult a law firm specialising in public procurement law.
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